Ph ET Simulations
Interactive science and math simulations. Physics, chemistry, biology, earth science.
Open the official app on phet.colorado.edu
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Use it free
Open the official tool or demo — no account needed.
Self-host it
Run the open-source version on your own infrastructure.
What is Ph ET Simulations?
PhET Simulations is an open-source project developed by the University of Colorado Boulder's PhET Interactive Simulations team. Its primary purpose is to create interactive, research-based science and math simulations for educational use. The tool educators, students, and developers to explore complex scientific concepts through visual, hands-on experiences. It addresses the challenge of making abstract or difficult topics—such as electricity, chemistry, and physics—more accessible by allowing users to manipulate variables and observe real-time outcomes. The project is widely adopted in K-12 and higher education settings, with a focus on fostering conceptual understanding through play-based learning.
How it works
PhET Simulations provides web-based tools for creating interactive educational content. It is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experimentation by simulating real-world phenomena. The project emphasizes accessibility, allowing users to engage with science and math concepts without prior programming expertise. Its simulations are built using HTML5 and JavaScript, ensuring compatibility across modern browsers. PhET Simulations enables the creation of dynamic, interactive models with features like adjustable parameters, real-time feedback, and visualizations. For example, the 'Electricity' simulation allows users to manipulate circuits and observe current flow instantly.
How to use it
- 1Access the PhET Simulations GitHub repository to obtain development tools. 2. Use Chipper, the core framework, to design and test simulations locally. 3. Run unit tests via npm and QUnit to ensure functionality. 4. Deploy simulations to the PhET website or share them directly via web links. Practical tips include leveraging the PhET Development Overview documentation for architecture guidance and joining the community forum for troubleshooting.
What it can do
- Utility
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/phetsims/chipper
- license: MIT — free to use
- privacy: Opens an external demo
Limitations
- Requires technical proficiency with JavaScript and HTML5 for advanced customization
- Dependent on npm and Node.js for development workflows
- Limited real-time collaboration features compared to dedicated coding platforms
- Documentation gaps may hinder new contributors without community support
- No native mobile app support for simulation creation, though viewing is possible
Understanding the result
Interactive science and math simulations. Physics, chemistry, biology, earth science — run in browser.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by chipper (MIT).
- Built with
- chipper (phetsims/chipper)
- License
- MIT
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Text
- Output
- Output
Built with phetsims/chipper. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- chipper
- License
- MIT
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- phetsims/chipper — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- MIT License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
How does PhET Simulations handle cross-browser compatibility?
PhET Simulations uses HTML5 and JavaScript standards to ensure compatibility across modern browsers. Developers must test simulations in multiple environments, as browser-specific quirks may affect rendering. The Chipper framework includes utility functions to mitigate common cross-browser issues, but manual verification is required.
How does the Chipper framework streamline simulation development?
Chipper automates repetitive tasks like asset management, code organization, and testing. It provides pre-built modules for physics engines, data visualization, and user interface components. Developers can focus on core simulation logic rather than boilerplate code, reducing development time by up to 40% according to internal benchmarks.
How can I create a basic simulation to demonstrate Newton's laws?
Start by cloning the PhET Simulations repository and installing dependencies via npm. Use the Chipper template for physics simulations, then modify the force and motion parameters in the JavaScript files. Add interactive elements like sliders for mass and velocity. Test changes locally using the built-in development server before deploying to the PhET website.
How does PhET Simulations compare to GeoGebra or Desmos?
PhET Simulations focuses on physics and chemistry simulations with real-time interactive models, while GeoGebra emphasizes mathematical visualization and Desmos specializes in graphing equations. Unlike these tools, PhET requires programming knowledge for customization but offers deeper integration with educational research frameworks.
What should I do if my simulation fails to render in the browser?
Check for console errors in the browser's developer tools. Common issues include missing dependencies, incorrect file paths, or incompatible JavaScript syntax. Verify that all assets are properly linked in the HTML file. If using Chipper, run the build process again to ensure assets are correctly packaged.